Quick and Easy Car Maintenance Guide

Cars are like electric lights. We often don't appreciate them until they go on
the blink. Regular maintenance checks and simple service can greatly reduce the
cost of car ownership and keep you a much happier traveler!

Don't let the thought of car maintenance intimidate you. There are actually
several car maintenance tips you can do - even if you're totally
mechanically-challenged!

For instance, you'll want to keep your windshield washer fluid reservoir full.
This involves screwing off the cap and pouring windshield wiper fluid in the
right spot. You can quickly check the fluid levels when filling up at the gas
station.

While you've got the windshield washer fluid out, pour some on a rag and clean
the bug guts, etc. off the wiper blades.

If you see any colored fluid leaking from your car, get it serviced immediately.

If you smell any peculiar odor coming from your car, take it to the nearest
service station. Odors mean something inappropriate is going on under the hood
of your car!

Every fall, go ahead and replace your wiper blades. You need new ones once a
year - might as well get them before winter sets in and you're wiping away that
ice and sleet!

Be sure all your lights are clean and working, including brake lights, turn
signals and emergency flashers. You can perform this quick check while filling
up your gas tank.

Check your tires once a month - give a look over for cuts, bulges, or nails or
other foreign objects sticking out.

Take your car to your friendly serviceman once a month and have the pressure in
your tires checked. This service should cost you less than five bucks, if
anything.

Every three months have your oil and oil filter changed. Many times an
inspection is done during the oil change. It's worth it to pay a little extra
if you have to and have this done. Ask to have your battery checked, too.

Have your air filter changed when it gets dirty. You can ask the folks who
change your oil to check the air filter. They're happy to change it for you.

No matter how non-car savvy you may have felt in the past, finding that you can
do some simple maintenance checks puts you in the driver's seat. You're likely
to discover in advance if your car has a problem that should be taken care of
immediately.

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